Life Sciences Workshop - Microscopes

SnoCo Makerspace will be hosting a life sciences workshop to allow users to learn the ins and outs of one of biology's basic instruments - the microscope. In this workshop you will learn the basics of light microscopy: how light sources are used and how optical elements create images, both real and virtual; the physics of light and physiology of the eye; how lenses work and their types, and how to prepare your own slides using basic stains.

Stereo (dissecting) microscopes use reflected light to view larger 3 dimensional objects, while traditional compound microscopes use transmitted light to view thin, smaller samples. Learn how the the four functional parts of a traditional compound microscope (light source, condenser, objective lens and ocular lens) contribute to the quality of the image, and how to setup up a microscope to optimize viewing (Köhler illumination).

We will prepare slides and see how each stain highlights specific aspects of a cell. The staining methods included are hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) for tissue & cells, Gram stain for bacteria, methylene blue and iodine for onion cells and Wright's stain for blood smears. If you have anything you would like to view please bring it along. Although mIcroscopes will be provided you are welcome to bring your own.

Member: $35

Non-Member: $50